london.ac.uk/computing

Undergraduate programmes in

Computing and Information SystemsCreative Computing

2020

Academic direction by

Undergraduate programmes in Computing2

1 A mark of excellence Gain a degree from the University of London, a mark

of excellence, respected worldwide since 1858.

2 Study without relocating Study wherever you live and gain a prestigious qualification. With competitive fees and no travel, relocation or accommodation costs, studying through the University of London is much more affordable than coming to London to study on campus.

3 Quality of learning The programmes in this prospectus are developed by academics at Goldsmiths, a member institution of the University of London. You can participate in a global learning community by connecting online with fellow students worldwide to collaborate and share perspectives.

4 Employability Enter the workplace with a range of qualifications and experience and develop transferable skills such as problem solving, analysis and self-motivation, which are sought after by top employers worldwide.

5 Join the World Class On graduation join our global community of influential alumni, from leaders in business and industry to Nobel prize winners.

Join the World Class

london.ac.uk/computing 3

“ In a fast changing environment of worldwide access to higher education, a University of London degree continues to offer a guarantee of quality, value and intellectual rigour.”

Professor Wendy Thomson Vice-Chancellor, University of London

Undergraduate programmes in Computing4

About your qualificationWhen you graduate with a degree, diploma or certificate from the University of London you will receive two important documents – your Final Diploma (the parchment you receive on graduation) and a Diploma Supplement.

The Final Diploma• Indicates that you were registered with the University of London

and awarded a University of London degree, diploma or certificate• Names Goldsmiths as the member institution

responsible for the syllabus and assessment.• Features the University of London crest and

the Vice-Chancellor’s signature.

The Diploma Supplement• Describes the nature, level and content of the programme

you successfully completed.• Includes the transcript of courses taken, marks achieved

and overall classification.• States the role of Goldsmiths and the method of study.

Your prestigious University of London qualification

london.ac.uk/computing 5

Contents

Key dates

Application deadlineYou can apply throughout the year, but we strongly advise you to apply as early as possible.

Applications must be received no later than1 October 2020

Registration deadline30 November 2020

Start studying

Study materials are usually available from mid-August. Some materials are available online, enabling you to start earlier.

ExaminationsMay–June 2020

Introduction

Join the World Class 2

Your prestigious University of London qualification 4

World-class academic direction from Goldsmiths 6

Programmes

BSc Computing and Information Systems 8

BSc Creative Computing 10

Certificates of Higher Education (CertHE) 12

Work Experience Entry Route 13

Individual courses 14

Reference section

How you study 15

Summer school 17

The Student Portal 18

Computer requirements 19

Entrance requirements 20

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) 22

Application and registration process 24

Transfer 25

Further information 26

Undergraduate programmes in Computing6

World-class academic direction from GoldsmithsAn innovative approachThe programmes in Computing are stimulating, interesting and relevant. Goldsmiths has designed them to provide lasting benefit, by combining leading-edge practice with solid underlying principles.

Our programmes focus on the innovative application of computing technology, underpinned by rigorous study of the technology itself. The approach is to emphasise independence, creativity and learning by doing. The Computing and Information Systems degree provides a solid grounding in computer technology and exposes you to its application in the world of business and information systems. The Creative Computing degree gives a similar grounding in technology

and focuses on its application in creative contexts, such as music, visual arts and computer games.

Both programmes will enable you to become a technically competent user of computing technology and enhance your potential to become a developer, innovator and leader in your field.

Career enhancing skillsCompeting in a global economy that is increasingly dependent on technology requires high levels of technical skill and understanding. Studying computing will provide you with a strong foundation and a chance to develop your interests. You will learn how to apply computing to a range of real-life situations and you will develop your skillset to meet evolving employment opportunities. You will

acquire the expertise to develop the next generation of computing, and contribute to strategic decision-making for complex socio-technical systems. Whether your ambitions lie within business, IT or the creative industries, a world-class degree of international standing will fast-track your career.

Why study computing at Goldsmiths? Goldsmiths is all about the freedom to experiment, to think differently, to be an individual.

Founded in 1891, Goldsmiths is internationally renowned for creative and innovative approaches to both teaching and research. A distinctive attitude to learning encourages students to explore ideas, challenge boundaries, investigate fresh ways of thinking and stretch their minds intellectually and creatively.

Awarded over £15 million in research grants in the last five years, we have a unique vision of computing research as an interdisciplinary set of practices, methods and techniques. As a result, our research renews and invigorates computer science as a discipline through a range of unusual forms of engagement and activity: artistic works, musical performances, social science studies,

Dr Maggie CooperProgramme Director

Joe Gadian MortonProgramme Officer

Kärt LuikProgramme Manager

Programme team

london.ac.uk/computing 7

alongside the more traditional peer-reviewed paper outputs.

Our academic staff are active researchers and leading experts in their field. Our research ranges from mainstream computer science, including algorithms, data analytics and machine learning, to creative computing for music, film, TV, visual arts, games and animation.

According to the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2020, Goldsmiths is in the top 50 in the UK for Computer Science and Information Systems.

A University of London degreeUndergraduate degrees of the University of London are awarded with Honours. The award certificate will indicate the level of the academic performance (Honours) achieved by classifying the award. The classification of the degree will be based on the ratified marks from the completed assessments. The standard classification system for bachelor’s degrees with Honours is:

• First Class

• Upper Second Class

• Lower Second Class

• Third Class

A Pass Degree or Ordinary Degree is a degree without Honours. Specific rules for the classification of awards are given in the Programme Regulations, under Scheme of Award.

Programme No. of courses Study period Description

BSc 12 3–6 yearsThe traditional degree in which 12 courses are taken in three stages. You are welcome to apply to transfer to Goldsmiths to complete your degree studies, entering at Year 2 or Year 3.

Certificate of Higher Education (CertHE) 4 1–4 years An award in its own right. You may transfer directly to Level 5 of the BSc

once you have successfully completed the Certificate.

Work Experience Entry Route 2 1–3 years

An additional entry route to the BSc for applicants with non-standard qualifications. Students who wish to study Computing and Information Systems or Creative Computing will take two courses.

Individual courses 1–2 1–2 yearsYou can apply to take individual courses if you wish to enhance your skills or professional knowledge, demonstrate your ability in a specific area or study certain subjects in which you have an interest.

Introduction to the awards

Undergraduate programmes in Computing8

BSc Computing and Information Systems

Computing and Information SystemsYou’ll gain a wide appreciation of the subject, rather than just an understanding of existing commercial approaches and limited software languages and packages. You will learn to adapt and evolve to keep ahead in the fast-changing world of computing.

The programme is designed to equip you with a wide range of knowledge and skills to meet the current demands of the industry and thus increase your career prospects. The degree is a well-established route to postgraduate study.

The range of skills you will develop includes:

• knowledge of computation and computation machinery

• core programming

• systems analysis and design

• software engineering

• software project management

• competence in databases, artificial intelligence, interaction design, e-commerce solutions, computer security, data compression and information systems management.

CareersSome of our graduates go on to study at top institutions, but most secure graduate posts in order to establish their careers. These include:

• Systems analyst: You’ll have a high level of technical expertise along with the ability to understand information systems within an organisation. You will be able to analyse system requirements and design, build, modify, adapt and test IT systems that meet changing business needs.

• Security consultant: You’ll be skilled in the area of computer networking, and have a deep understanding of cryptography and the risks and issues surrounding data security. You will be able to analyse data breaches using forensic methods, and improve and protect corporate systems.

• Networking engineer: You will have a high level of understanding of networking infrastructure and be able to design, implement and support the networks vital to corporate activity across the world.

• Technical architect: You will be a fluent programmer, in touch with the latest developments in software and technology. You will be able to assimilate new techniques quickly and incorporate them into your designs for powerful information systems.

london.ac.uk/computing 9

Programme overviewThe BSc:

• helps you develop the ability to analyse and develop systems that can grow to meet changing needs in enterprise environments and other organisations

• helps you develop a portfolio of practical demonstrations of your work, through coursework and a substantial project

• provides a progression route to a variety of higher degrees in the computing and information systems sectors

• allows recognition of prior learning for previously studied material, where applicable

• has a flexible study period of between three and eight years

• is examined according to the same standards as campus-based students studying at Goldsmiths

• allows transfer to Goldsmiths’ Year 2 on successful completion of Level 4 (or the corresponding Certificate) or Year 3 on successful completion of Levels 4 and 5 (see page 25).

“ The Computing and Information Systems degree revealed a side of me which I never knew existed. I found I have a passion to connect people with technology. The modules and other activities I was involved in have honed both my technical and soft skills which are essential in the workforce.”

Farah Saleh Computing and Information Systems, Singapore

Undergraduate programmes in Computing10

BSc Creative Computing

Creative ComputingThis programme is unique as it gives you skills in designing creative applications as well as using them, in the visual, audio and multimedia domains. It will enable you to express your own creativity and give you the knowledge, confidence and ability to act as a creative professional in the computing, media, music and arts industries. The degree also gives access to postgraduate study.

The range of skills you will develop includes:

• programming to support creative uses of audio and video

• digital media processing

• creative practices and methodologies in a technology context

• competence in advanced graphics and animation, databases, artificial intelligence and interaction design.

“ I found the idea of combining the study of science and art fascinating. One of the areas I enjoyed the most was the application of artificial intelligence to music composition and analysis.”

Denis de Montigny BSc Creative Computing, Luxembourg

london.ac.uk/computing 11

CareersHere are some examples of the kind of employment that will be open to you:

• Games developer: You’ll be skilled in programming and animation for games and other creative apps, across platforms ranging from mobile devices through to desktop computers. The games development industry is fast-growing, resulting in a shortfall of suitably qualified graduates.

• 3D graphics programmer: Your advanced programming skills and knowledge of mathematics and 3D graphics and animation combine to provide key skills for this increasingly important role.

• Web developer: You will design and code web pages and implement the back end technical systems that underpin them. You may build bespoke solutions or support a global e-commerce platform, or work on the latest technologies in the sharing economy.

• Multimedia programmer: Your programming and creative skills will enable you to build new forms of digital and interactive media and online services. You will develop creative features, such as 2D/3D models, animation, music and video for innovative multimedia products.

Programme overviewThe BSc:

• is unique as a flexible learning programme as it provides you with the skills to design computer applications across a wide range of creative industries

• provides a progression route to a variety of higher degrees in the creative technology sector

• allows recognition of prior learning for previously studied material, where applicable

• has a flexible study period of between three and eight years

• helps you develop a portfolio of creative artefacts, through coursework and a substantial project

• is examined according to the same standards as campus-based students studying at Goldsmiths, with students sitting the same examinations where feasible

• allows transfer to Goldsmiths’ Year 2 on successful completion of Level 4 (or the corresponding Certificate) or Year 3 on successful completion of Levels 4 and 5 (see page 25).

Undergraduate programmes in Computing12

Certificates of Higher Education (CertHE)

An entry route to degree studyThe Certificate of Higher Education in Computing and Information Systems and the Certificate of Higher Education in Creative Computing are qualifications in their own right that also provide an alternative entry route to the degrees.

They may be studied on a full- or part-time basis, but only if you have applied, registered through and are studying at a recognised teaching centre that has been granted Certificate Teaching Status (see page 15). Applications for

the CertHE can only be submitted via a recognised teaching centre. Full details about the CertHE, including entrance criteria, syllabuses and application forms, should be obtained from the recognised teaching centre at which you intend to enrol.

Once you have successfully completed a CertHE, you may transfer directly to Level 5 of the corresponding BSc. Like Goldsmiths, a number of other British universities also recognise the Certificates as a possible entry route into the second year of a degree programme as an on-campus student.

These qualifications are for you if you:

• have the ability, motivation and maturity to study at degree level, but do not have the qualifications usually required to enter a degree level programme

• have the necessary qualifications to embark on a degree programme, but prefer a programme with more teaching support

• are interested in the subject, but wish to study for a shorter time than for a full degree.

The CertHE• A CertHE can be completed

in a minimum of one year and a maximum of four years.

• You receive the same study materials, have access to the same online facilities and take the same examinations as students taking the courses as part of their degree programme.

Please note: • It is not possible to study a

CertHE independently.

• You must meet the attendance requirements at your institution in order to be able to sit your examinations.

london.ac.uk/computing 13

Work Experience Entry Route

An alternative entry routeThe Work Experience Entry Route provides an alternative entry route to the BSc degrees, making them accessible to a wider range of students. You take two courses and once these are successfully completed you may move directly on to the BSc. This option is intended for applicants who do not have the necessary academic qualifications but have relevant work experience and are normally at least 21 years old.

The minimum time taken to complete a degree if the Work Experience Entry Route is followed is four years. The entry requirements are given on page 20.

Features of the Work Experience Entry Route• You can transfer your registration

to the BSc with credit for the courses you have passed.

• You will then complete the other Level 4 courses that form part of the degree, together with up to two Level 5 courses.

• The Work Experience Entry Route is examined to the same standard as the Level 4 courses of the degree.

• You do not need to study at a teaching institution.

Davidson EdwardsComputing and Information Systems, Dominic

‘I would strongly recommend the University of London. It really does equip you with the tools necessary to go out into the world and make a difference.

I started as a young programmer and I left with enough systems design and software lifecycle knowledge to start a software business. I bootstrapped this business, with the aim of growing the tech sector in my country. To that end, I used it as a vehicle to train young computer science students.’

Undergraduate programmes in Computing14

Individual courses

Career and personal development studyAs long as you satisfy the entry requirements, you can take an individual course without registering for a certificate or degree programme. When you register you will receive a certificate of registration. If you pass the examination you will receive a certificate of achievement.

Are individual courses for me?You can take up to two individual courses from the computing programmes to enhance your skills or professional knowledge, to satisfy the accreditation requirements of a university or professional body or simply to study certain subjects in which you are interested.

What support will I receive?You receive the same study materials, have access to the same online facilities and take the same examinations as students taking the courses as part of their certificate or degree programme.

Progression and creditIf, after completing an individual course, you apply and are admitted to register for a BSc or Certificate, you can obtain credit for the individual course(s) you have taken, provided you apply within three years of completing them. Further information is given in the current Programme Regulations.

“ I will never stop suggesting and sponsoring the University of London and Goldsmiths to fellows and friends because I learned a lot during these five years – more than what I learned while working full-time in several IT companies.”

Luigi Belli Computing and Information Systems, Italy

london.ac.uk/computing 15

How you study

Choose the approach that suits you bestWe recognise that students value choice in how, when and where they study. Our programmes offer you a flexible way of obtaining a prestigious qualification at a reasonable cost. You can study independently, working completely on your own, although many students choose to enrol with a local institution, either full-time or part-time, and gain the additional benefits of face-to-face academic support and interaction with fellow students.

So that you can rely on the standards of the teaching, support and administration that you will receive, we have created a network of institutions that offer study support to University of London students within our Institutions Policy Framework. These institutions are known as recognised teaching centres.

Students taking the Certificates in Computing and Information Systems or Creative Computing must attend a certificate-teaching institution. We strongly advise BSc students and those on the Work Experience

Entry Route, where feasible, to seek tuition from one of the recognised teaching centres. Please note that teaching support is not available from the University of London.

We cannot advise you on which teaching centre is best for you; ultimately, you must choose one that meets your own needs.

For details about Recognised Teaching Centres please visit: bit.ly/recognised-centres

Undergraduate programmes in Computing16

Plan your studiesIndependent study demands that you are motivated, well-organised and focused. You should be prepared to allocate at least 300 hours of study to each full course during the academic year, and will need a detailed study plan to ensure you are prepared for the May examination period.

If you are working full-time, we recommend you take a maximum of two full courses per year.

Study materialsYour study materials are specially produced by University of London academics for self-directed learning. They include:

• the Student guide to the University of London and the Programme handbook, containing information about examinations, University contacts and important dates

• a subject guide for each course studied. The guides introduce you to topics within the syllabus, and provide details of essential and recommended reading. Core textbooks – some of which you will need to buy – will provide the necessary depth for your studies, and the guides will show you how to use them in an organised and productive manner

• additional electronic resources provided on the computing virtual learning environment (VLE)

• past examination papers, courseworks, and Examiners’ commentaries, also provided on the VLE.

Coursework component For the majority of courses you must complete coursework that contributes to your final mark. This gives you experience of answering questions and solving problems. Coursework assessment has the additional benefit of spreading the time commitment and encouraging you to engage with your studies throughout the academic year.

We have found that this approach significantly increases students’ success rate. Coursework is submitted between January and April before the examination session begins.

Examination standardsYour work will be assessed by a combination of unseen written papers and coursework. These are prepared and managed by Goldsmiths’ appointed academics to ensure your work is assessed to the same standard as campus-based students. Examinations are held in May/June at local centres in over 180 different countries, as well as in London.

london.ac.uk/computing 17

Goldsmiths Summer School

Third-year BSc Creative Computing student, Wesley Koh, shares his experience of the 2019 Goldsmiths Summer School.When offered the opportunity to visit one of the most artistic and culturally rich cities in the world and to be taught highly niche creative skills, who could give up the chance?

We learnt how to connect the physical world with the computing environment. One of the more interesting parts of the course was when we made game controllers and artefacts from just yarn, conductive thread and sewing equipment.

The second half of the course focused more on graphics and animation. After a small refresher on how to use Processing, we were introduced to more advanced topics such as projection mapping, data analysis and representation.

Throughout the four-week Summer School, we were highly encouraged to be creative and to think outside the box. Rarely were we given limitations in what we could create, and I believe this really fuelled our creativity and we expressed ourselves freely.

The teaching staff were very approachable and highly knowledgeable in their field of expertise. They were able to impart

a hefty amount of skills in the short time while keeping their lessons fun and interactive. They went out of their way to ensure that we felt at home.

The Summer School was a truly amazing experience. My favourite part of the curriculum was easily the physical computing aspect. Learning how to bridge the gap between the 2D and 3D world really allowed me to expand my creative abilities. It opened up many more avenues for me to express my creativity. I would never have been exposed to these advanced skills in my undergraduate curriculum if I had not participated in the Summer School at Goldsmiths.

I would highly recommend this course to all computing students looking for ways to express their creative self.

“The teaching staff were able to impart a hefty amount of skills in the short time while keeping their lessons fun and interactive.” Wesley Koh Summer School Singapore

Undergraduate programmes in Computing18

The Student Portal

Gaining accessYou are required to confirm on your application form that you have access to the internet so that you are able to make use of resources which are only available online. As soon as you have registered we will send you a username and password which will allow you to log in to the Student Portal. Once logged in, you can also access your University of London email account.

The computing virtual learning environmentThe computing virtual learning environment (VLE) forms an important part of your study experience and you are required to log in regularly to engage fully with your programme.

It is compatible with mobile devices, allowing you to connect when and where you want. By interacting with your fellow students, VLE tutors and Programme Team, you will become part of the worldwide community. This global network will help your studies and understanding of emerging trends around the world. In addition to providing downloadable versions of all printed materials, the VLE includes a growing range of additional resources:

• additional support materials covering topics such as refresher mathematics, study and research skills, careers, etc.

• links to software downloads

• interactive resources for some courses

• student course discussion boards

• Student Café forum

• regular news and Twitter feeds

• archive of past examination papers, coursework assignments and Examiners’ commentaries

• examples of outstanding student work

• interim grade feedback on coursework assignments

• Turnitin plagiarism checker.

The Online LibraryThe Online Library provides access to a range of databases, many of which contain full-text eJournals and eBooks.

For many students, using an online library and reading journal articles are new skills. We provide support and guidance on the best way to approach journal resources, and a range of materials designed to improve your reading and information literacy skills is available. A dedicated helpdesk is available if you have any difficulties in finding what you need. Visit: onlinelibrary.london.ac.uk

Library support

Senate House Library Registered students are entitled to use Senate House Library. The Library charges for this service. Visit: london.ac.uk/senate-house-library

london.ac.uk/computing 19

Computer requirements

Regular internet accessAll students must have regular access to a computer and the internet. You will need this for accessing the Portal or resources from the Online Library, downloading course materials from the VLE and taking part in discussion boards.

You will also need suitable hardware capacity on your computer for document storage as well as basic software such as a PDF reader.

We recommend that you use an up-to-date version of Internet Explorer, Firefox or Chrome and that your screen resolution is 1024 x 768 or greater. JavaScript and cookies must be enabled to access particular online services.

SoftwareYou are advised to make use of common operating systems and software, as follows:

• Windows™, Linux or Mac.

• Word processor, spreadsheet and database. No applications are recommended specifically, but under Windows™, an integrated package such as Microsoft Office is sufficient, while under Linux, OpenOffice is adequate.

• The Java SE Development Kit (JDK) version 6 or higher, available for free from oracle.com

• For some high level courses, additional software may be required. This information is given under the course outlines.

Computing and Information Systems For some courses, access to a suitable network is very important for full learning benefit. Without such access, you can still complete the degree, but you will not have the same study experience as a student with this access. The highest level of access you will require for effective study will be as a (temporary) network manager so that you can experiment with configuration.

Other machines, apart from those that are PC compatible, are acceptable provided they run equivalent software.

ComputersRecommended minimum configuration:

• processor (2GHz)

• hard drive (10GB free)

• RAM (2GB)

• screen resolution (minimum 1024 x 768 colour)

• network adapter (Ethernet, Fast Ethernet, Gigabit Ethernet)

• soundcard (stereo).

Hadeel AyoubSaudi Arabia

Designer and media artist, Hadeel Ayoub created the wireless sign language glove during her MA in Computational Arts from the Department of Computing. Inspired by the problems experienced by a family member with speech difficulties, she came to Goldsmiths with the aim of enhancing communication between people with different abilities.

Hadeel is passionate about the impact of learning computing, ‘Once you know how to write code you can make a computer do whatever you want it [to] do and this is the future. At Goldsmiths they allow you to take your project in your own direction, it’s another world.’

Undergraduate programmes in Computing20

Entrance requirements

General entrance requirementsEither passes in: • two subjects at GCE A level, plus

at least three further subjects at GCSE/GCE O level (A–C/9–4 or a ‘pass’ if taken prior to 1975) or

• three subjects at GCE A level (with at least one A level passed at grade A–D) or

• three subjects at GCE A level, plus one further subject at GCSE/GCE O level (A–C/9–4) or

• two subjects at GCE A level, plus two further subjects at GCE AS level.

Please note: • the same subject may only be

offered once and at one level

• for General Entrance we accept qualifications from around the world, further details can be found at: bit.ly/Am-I-Qualified

Programme requirements for the degreeA level of competence at least equivalent to a pass at GCE AS level in a mathematical subject or a UK GCSE/GCE O level in mathematics at A–B/9–5.

The University will consider qualifications of a comparable standard to GCE AS and GCSE/GCE O levels. The decision on comparable qualifications is taken at the discretion of the University.

For equivalents please visit: bit.ly/Am-I-Qualified

BSc degreeTo be eligible for the degree you must: • normally* be at least 17 years old and

• meet the general entrance requirements and

• meet the programme requirements and

• provide proof of competence in English which is acceptable to the University. A test of proficiency may be required. Please visit: bit.ly/proficiency-english

CertHETo be eligible for the Certificate you must: • normally* be aged 17 years or older

before 1 September in the year you first register with the University and

• have passed the equivalent of at least three separate subjects at UK GCSE/GCE O level (A–C/9–4) plus mathematics at A–B/9–5. Students who do not have UK GCSE/GCE O level Mathematics at A–B/9–5 may meet the mathematics entry requirements taking and passing a presessional mathematics course at the institution offering the CertHE and

• provide proof of competence in English which is acceptable to the University. A test of proficiency may be required (please visit: bit.ly/proficiency-english) and

• have been admitted to a full- or part-time course of instruction at an institution that has been granted certificate teaching status (see page 15).

london.ac.uk/computing 21

Work Experience Entry RouteTo be eligible for the Work Experience Entry Route you must: • normally* be aged 21 years or older

before 1 September in the year you first register with the University and

• have passed a minimum of four separate subjects at GCSE/GCE O level (A–C/9–4) including Mathematics or the equivalent (for equivalents please visit: bit.ly/Am-I-Qualified) and

• provide proof of competence in English which is acceptable to the University. A test of proficiency may be required (please visit: bit.ly/proficiency-english) and

• have at least two years’ relevant work experience (i.e. with computing or IT elements either from a job in a computing-oriented company or a job in computing or IT).

* Applications will be considered from applicants who do not meet the normal minimum age requirement for admission. Each application will be considered on an individual basis, and the decision taken at the discretion of the University of London.

Undergraduate programmes in Computing22

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

What is RPL?RPL means that you are not required to take a particular course(s) as part of your degree because, in the University’s opinion, you have already covered a similar syllabus as part of a previous qualification, at the same level, depth and breadth. We will award you credit as if you had taken the course concerned. Some RPL we award is ‘automatic’; all other RPL is considered on a ‘discretionary’ basis.

RPL is only valid for a limited period. If you are granted RPL, this period is given on your decision letter. If you do not attempt an examination during this period, the RPL will expire. If you still want the RPL to count towards your degree, you will need to make a further application.

Automatic RPL• RPL is awarded automatically for a

number of qualifications and awards, all of which are listed on the website (bit.ly/computing_rpl). You will need to complete the RPL section of the online application form.

• All applicants must also satisfy the criteria listed under ‘Am I eligible to apply for RPL?’

• There is no application fee for consideration of automatic RPL (see ‘How do I apply for RPL?’).

Please note: we will only be able to consider your RPL application fully after we have received the necessary documentary evidence and, if you are applying for discretionary RPL, after we have received your fee.

Discretionary RPLApplications will be considered in the light of the syllabus, the level of examination performance and the comparability of the prior learning to the course concerned.

Am I eligible to apply for RPL?

BSc applicants only may apply• RPL is normally only considered

on a subject-for-subject basis, you should only apply for RPL if you have previously studied a similar subject to one in the programme in the same depth, at degree level (or the equivalent), and you have achieved good marks in the corresponding examination.

• To apply for automatic RPL you must satisfy all the criteria for one of the qualifications listed under ‘Automatic RPL’ on the following web page: bit.ly/computing_rpl

• You may apply for up to four Level 4 and Level 5 courses, with a maximum of two courses at Level 5.

• You must normally have studied for your qualification at one institution.

london.ac.uk/computing 23

You must also have: • passed the whole of the

qualification(s) on which your application for RPL is based within the five years preceding the application

• already received the final award for that qualification(s). If you have not yet received the award, your RPL application will be considered under the RPL regulations that apply at the time that the award is finally made. These regulations may be different to those that apply at the time you submit your application.

Please note: • applications for RPL with respect

to the forthcoming examinations year will only be considered if your qualification is awarded before the application deadline (i.e. 1 October)

• we do not award RPL on the basis of O or A levels, or other similar school-leaving examinations

• we cannot consider a request for RPL with respect to a particular course if you have already entered the examination for that course

• the granting of RPL by other higher educational or professional institutions will be noted but does not bind the University of London to award the same RPL.

How do I apply for RPL?Please read this section carefully.

Formal application must be made for all RPL, both discretionary and automatic. Complete the RPL section of the online application form. A non-refundable fee is payable for the consideration of all discretionary RPL. Please do not send this fee with your initial application.

On receipt of your initial RPL application, the Admissions Office will send you one of the following:

• a decision letter advising that RPL has been awarded

• a letter requesting further documentary evidence before a decision regarding automatic RPL can be taken

• an RPL request pack for discretionary RPL, comprising an RPL request form, fee slip and a covering letter. You must complete and return the request form and non-refundable fee, following the instructions given in the letter that accompanies the RPL request pack. You must also submit all the documentary evidence requested in that letter and the fee indicated

• a decision letter informing you that your RPL request has been unsuccessful. This will usually be because you do not satisfy the criteria given in the section ‘Am I eligible to apply for RPL?’

Deadline dateWe must receive your initial application for RPL no later than: 1 October.

We will take a decision on your application for discretionary RPL as soon as possible after your request form, fee and documentary evidence have been received. The RPL application fee is non-refundable.

Undergraduate programmes in Computing24

Application and registration processUseful information for applicants Submit your application even if you are waiting to sit an examination or to receive examination results. We can begin to process your application without all the evidence, although we will not be able to give you a final decision until all the necessary documentation has been received.

If you are unsure about whether or not you meet our entrance requirements we might be able to advise you on this before you submit your online application. We are unable to provide this advice between 1 September and 30 October of each year.

Applications are valid for three years.

Getting startedYou must apply online at: london.ac.uk/computing

If you intend to study at an institution you are advised to contact them before submitting your application.

Please read the ‘Guidance Notes for Applications’ before you complete your application.

Stage 1 Submit your online application form and application handling fee. Please note the application handling fee is non-refundable.

Stage 2Submit your documentary evidence. This can be done online when submitting your application or at a later stage. Please visit: bit.ly/doc_evidence

Please do not send original documents.

Stage 3We will contact you by email with one of the following:

Offer Letter: if you meet our entrance requirements and we have seen all the required documentation we will send you an Offer Letter.

Request for further information: we might require further documentation/information before we can confirm if you meet our entrance requirements.

We have referred your application to the Admissions Panel: if you do not automatically meet our entrance requirements we will refer your application to the Admissions Panel for individual consideration. The Admissions Panel will consider

qualifications that are not published under the Qualifications for Entrance Schedule, incomplete qualifications and substantial relevant work experience. If we cannot accept you with your current qualifications and experience, we will advise you on what qualifications you could take in order to meet our entrance requirements in the future.

Stage 4Complete the online registration. We explain how to do this in the Offer Letter.

Stage 5Start your studies. Once you register you will be given access to the VLE. We will also send you study materials to your correspondence address.

Hong KongApplicants living in Hong Kong can apply directly through:

The University of Hong Kong School of Professional and Continuing Education (HKU SPACE) University of London (Admissions Office) 3/F, Admiralty Centre 18 Harcourt Road Hong Kong

london.ac.uk/computing 25

Transfer

To GoldsmithsGoldsmiths welcomes applications from University of London students if you wish to transfer to one of their degree programmes. Students who wish to transfer to complete their BSc over two years’ full-time study at Goldsmiths should have successfully completed the examinations for all four courses at Level 4. If you require further information, please contact: international.computing@gold.ac.uk

Those who wish to complete their degree in one year of full-time study should have successfully completed the examinations for all four courses at Level 4 and all four courses at Level 5. If you have completed the required courses as detailed above, or expect to do so in your intended year of

transfer, Goldsmiths will welcome your application to transfer provided that you contact them by 28 February in your intended year of entry. Under Home Office regulations, Goldsmiths can only register international students for full-time study.

Your offer will be subject to:

1. you successfully completing all required courses prior to transfer

2. you meeting any requirements for study in the UK, such as obtaining the relevant visas.

Goldsmiths has a policy of providing accommodation for non-EU students.

To view a video about transferring to Goldsmiths, please visit: bit.ly/goldsmiths-transfer

To another university in the UK or elsewhereIf you are thinking of applying to transfer to another university in the UK or elsewhere, we advise you to find out at least a year in advance what the procedures are for making an application. Your local British Council office can advise you on how to apply to universities in the UK.

Master’s scholarshipsGoldsmiths offers fee waiver scholarships specifically for students who have completed either the BSc in Computing and Informations Systems or the BSc in Creative Computing. To be considered for these scholarships, students will normally have or expect to have a First Class degree, and will have been accepted for postgraduate study in Computing at Goldsmiths.

All our graduates are eligible for the Goldsmiths’ Alumni Fee Waiver and Excellence Fee Waiver Schemes.

For further details visit:

• Goldsmiths International Postgraduate Scholarships: bit.ly/goldsmiths-scholarships

• Goldsmiths’ Alumni and Excellence Fee Waiver Schemes: bit.ly/goldsmiths-pg-funding

Undergraduate programmes in Computing26

Further information

FeesThe total fee payable to the University of London for 2020–2021 will be published on our website once confirmed. On average, fees incur a five per cent year-on-year increase. For the latest information on programme fees, please visit: london.ac.uk/fees

Please note: student fees shown on our website are net of any local VAT, Goods and Services Tax (GST) or any other sales tax payable by the student in their country of residence. Where the University is required to add VAT, GST or any other sales tax at the local statutory rate, this will be added to the fees shown during the payment process. For students resident in the UK, our fees are exempt from VAT.

Other costsIn addition to the fees payable to the University, you should also budget for the cost of:

• required textbooks

• the fee charged by your local examination centre

• local teaching institution fees.

Financial assistanceUndergraduate UK students may be able to apply for a part-time tuition fee loan to cover the cost of registration and examination entry fees.

For full details on eligibility criteria please visit: gov.uk/student-finance Alternatively, some employers in both the public and private sector may be willing to consider offering financial assistance to their employees.

Students with disabilities and/or access requirementsThe University of London welcomes applications from disabled students and/or those who have access requirements.

If you are disabled and/or have access requirements, we will make every reasonable effort to meet your needs. This may include making access arrangements for examinations such as a separate room or special aids. If you would like to tell us about your disability and/or request access arrangements, please complete the relevant section of the application form, or contact the Inclusive Practice Manager at: special.arrangements@london.ac.uk

Armed ForcesStudents who are members or ex-members of the UK Armed Forces should note that the University of London has been approved by the Ministry of Defence in support of the Enhanced Learning Credits (ELC) Scheme (ELC Provider Reference Number 1284). The Scheme provides financial support to eligible Service personnel who wish to enhance their educational or vocational achievements. The ELC Administration Service website can be found at: www.enhancedlearningcredits.com

The information contained in this leaflet was correct at the date of publication but may be subject to change. The University does not intend by publication or distribution of this leaflet to create any contractual or other legal relation with applicants, registered students, their advisers or any other persons. For the most up-to-date information, please visit our website.

Published by University of London.

Copyright © University of London, January 2020.

london.ac.uk/computing 27

london.ac.uk/computing

For further information on the range of programmes we offer, please visit our website or contact us at:

The Student Advice Centre University of London Senate House Malet Street London WC1E 7HU United Kingdom

Telephone +44 (0)20 7862 8360 sid.london.ac.uk

This material is available in alternative formats upon request. Please contact: special.arrangements@london.ac.uk

Follow us on:

london.ac.uk/linkedin

london.ac.uk/twitter

london.ac.uk/youtube

london.ac.uk/facebook

london.ac.uk/flickr

london.ac.uk/instagram london.ac.uk/issuu

View the Computing web page